A Swanscombe man who posed as a tree surgeon to defraud vulnerable elderly people in south Essex has been jailed.

Mark Thwaites, 40, of Child's Crescent, was sentenced to five years on five counts of fraud by false representation at Basildon Crown Court on Friday.

Three other men were also convicted for their part in the scam, which took place from November 9-16 2017.

Seven people aged between 79 and 95 were targeted by the group, after they called numbers advertising tree surgeon services on flyers.

The victims, based in Benfleet, Hullbridge and Southend, were all driven or walked to their banks along with one of the suspects, then told to tell staff they wanted to withdraw cash for a present.

Detective Constable Rob Lewis, of Basildon CID, said: “Following a complex and protracted investigation involving these callous and calculated crooks – two who have continuously tried to deny the offences – we today have had justice.

“I joined as a detective to help support vulnerable victims and their families and I hope this outcome allows them to move forward with their lives.

“The case involving all four men had a significant impact on the victims their health and the repercussions have an effect today.

“They have also suffered a financial loss after being targeted by these men and we are doing everything we can to get the money back.

“We have managed to get thousands back but we remain determined to recover it all.

“This case continues to highlight the dangers of posed by cold callers who put leaflets through the letterboxes with the aim of targeting the elderly and vulnerable.

“I would urge everyone to remain vigilant, look out for elderly friends and relatives and only engage with trusted tradespeople who have been verified and checked.”